Poundcast

In episode 18 of the Poundcast, we welcome Rita Martins, author of the book "Web3 in Financial Services: How Blockchain, Digital Assets and Crypto are Disrupting Traditional Finance". Rita discusses her career journey from consulting roles at Accenture and HSBC to her current focus on blockchain technology in finance. During this episode, Rita elaborates on the transformative potential of Web3 and the evolving blockchain ecosystem, explaining how traditional finance and decentralized finance (DeFi) are beginning to converge. She covers key topics such as tokenization, digital identity, and practical applications of blockchain in the financial services industry. The episode highlights the advantages of digital assets, unique ownership, and the future role of digital money, including stablecoins and central bank digital currencies (CBDCs). Listeners will gain insights into how blockchain and Web3 are poised to enhance efficiency and foster innovation in the financial sector. Rita shares examples and discusses the practical benefits and future possibilities of integrating decentralized technologies in mainstream finance. This episode offers valuable information for financial professionals, tech enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the future of money and financial technology.

In episode 17 of the Poundcast, we are thrilled to host technologist and thought leader Dave Birch. With a rich background in secure communications and financial services, Dave shares his insights on the evolution of money from physical forms to digital assets. We delve into the historical context of money, discuss the role of digital identity, and explore the fascinating world of digital currencies and their potential to reshape the financial landscape. Join us as we journey through the concept of money evolving from atoms to bits, the influence of technology on society, and the potential future where digital assets replace traditional currencies. Dave's unique perspective on digital identity, tokenisation, and the far-reaching implications of cryptocurrencies offers a thought-provoking exploration of the financial future. Whether you're interested in the history of money, the future of digital currencies, or just enjoy a good conversation about technology's impact on society, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for a captivating discussion that spans from tally sticks to the metaverse, and discover what the future holds for the way we think about and use money.

In Episode 16 of the Poundcast, we are joined Laura Navaratnam to explore the evolving landscape of crypto asset regulation in the UK. Laura is the UK Policy Lead at the Crypto Council for Innovation and previously spent seven years at the UK Financial Conduct Authority in a variety of leadership roles. In this episode, Laura shares her extensive experience, detailing the historical context, current state, and future outlook for crypto regulation, with a particular focus on stablecoins. We discuss the complexities of the regulatory perimeter, the impact of global events, and the delicate balance required to foster innovation while ensuring consumer protection. Join us for a deep dive into the intricacies of digital money regulation and what it means for the UK's position as a fintech leader.

In Episode 15 of the Poundcast, we are joined by Simon Youel, Head of Policy and Advocacy at Positive Money, a key player in the realm of economic reform and an advocate for the responsible creation and distribution of money. As a recent addition to the DPF community, Positive Money brings a wealth of insights into the transformative potential of digital currencies in enhancing social and economic policies. During this episode, Simon discusses the foundational issues of how money and banking systems operate, the misconceptions around money creation, and the pivotal role banks play in economic stability. The conversation delves into the evolution of Positive Money’s focus from the mechanics of money creation to broader economic reforms, including the advocacy for digital currencies and improved macroeconomic policies. Simon explains the innovative proposals for central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), emphasising the need for secure, inclusive digital payment systems that reduce reliance on traditional banks and enhance financial inclusivity. We also explore the implications of digital money for green finance, housing policies, and macroeconomic management. Simon stresses the importance of considering digital money not just as a technological innovation but as a tool for achieving better socio-economic outcomes and addressing contemporary challenges like climate change and economic inequality.

In Episode 14 of the Poundcast, we delve into the dynamic world of African digital currency with Adedeji Owonibi, Founder and CEO at Convexity. Adedeji shares his expertise on the developments in the Nigerian CBDC and stablecoin space, shedding light on initiatives like the eNaira and the African Stablecoin Consortium. He discusses the vision behind the cNGN stablecoin and its potential benefits for the Nigerian economy, fintech ecosystem, and digital strategy implementation. Adedeji also offers insights into the challenges and opportunities surrounding the adoption of CBDCs, highlighting the innovative solutions being built on top of these platforms. From regulatory discussions to technological innovations, this conversation provides valuable insights into the future of digital currency in Africa.